Waves (2019) Movie Review: A Powerful Exploration of Family, Grief, and Redemption
Introduction
Trey Edward Shults’ Waves (2019) is an emotionally charged drama that delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics, grief, and personal redemption. With its compelling narrative, stunning cinematography, and exceptional performances, Waves offers a powerful and thought-provoking viewing experience. The film’s exploration of the ripple effects of a tragic event on a family’s life is both poignant and impactful.
Plot Summary
The film follows the tumultuous lives of the Williams family, centered around two siblings: Tyler (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and Emily (Taylor Russell). The story unfolds in two distinct acts, each capturing a different phase of the family’s journey through tragedy and healing.
In the first act, Tyler, a high school senior and a promising wrestler, struggles with the pressures of his athletic career, his strained relationship with his father, Ronald (Sterling K. Brown), and the weight of a life-altering decision. Tyler’s life takes a dramatic turn when a series of unfortunate events culminates in a devastating tragedy that upends the family’s world.
The second act shifts focus to Emily, who grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy and her own path to redemption. As Emily navigates her grief and attempts to rebuild her life, the film explores themes of forgiveness, healing, and the power of familial bonds.
Performances and Character Dynamics
Kelvin Harrison Jr. delivers a powerful performance as Tyler, capturing the character’s internal conflict, vulnerability, and eventual downfall. Harrison’s portrayal is raw and authentic, making Tyler’s journey both heart-wrenching and relatable.
Taylor Russell’s portrayal of Emily is equally compelling, showcasing her character’s resilience and emotional depth. Russell’s performance provides a moving counterpoint to the first act, highlighting the film’s thematic shift towards healing and redemption.
Sterling K. Brown, as Ronald, brings a sense of gravitas and complexity to the role of the family patriarch. His performance adds depth to the film’s exploration of father-son relationships and the impact of parental expectations.
Direction and Cinematography
Trey Edward Shults’ direction in Waves is characterized by its emotional intensity and visual creativity. Shults masterfully balances the film’s dramatic elements with its aesthetic presentation, creating a visceral and immersive experience for viewers.
The cinematography by Drew Daniels is a standout aspect of the film, using dynamic camera work and striking color palettes to enhance the emotional tone of the narrative. The film’s visual style complements its themes, creating a vivid and engaging portrayal of the characters’ inner worlds.
Themes and Emotional Impact
Waves explores themes of family, grief, and redemption with sensitivity and nuance. The film delves into the ways in which individuals cope with tragedy and the ways in which family bonds can both support and strain in the face of adversity.
The film’s two-act structure allows for a deep exploration of the ripple effects of a tragic event, offering a nuanced portrayal of the characters’ emotional journeys. The shift in focus from Tyler’s story to Emily’s provides a rich and multifaceted view of the family’s experience, highlighting the complexities of healing and forgiveness.
The emotional impact of Waves is profound, as it captures the raw and often painful realities of dealing with loss and finding a path forward. The film’s exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and deeply moving, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
Streaming and Availability
For viewers in the United States, Waves (2019) is available on several streaming platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase in HD.
- Apple TV: Offers the film for rental or purchase with HD streaming options.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Provides options to rent or buy, with streaming in various formats.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase, with HD streaming options.
- YouTube Movies: Offers rental and purchase options, with HD streaming.
These platforms provide convenient options for streaming, renting, or purchasing Waves, allowing viewers to experience the film’s emotional depth and visual artistry from the comfort of their homes.
Conclusion
Trey Edward Shults’ Waves (2019) is a powerful and emotionally resonant film that offers a compelling exploration of family dynamics, grief, and redemption. With standout performances from Kelvin Harrison Jr., Taylor Russell, and Sterling K. Brown, and a visually stunning presentation, the film provides a deeply moving cinematic experience. Whether you’re drawn to its dramatic narrative, its thematic depth, or its exceptional performances, Waves is a film that leaves a lasting impact and invites thoughtful reflection.
